7 simple tips to improve your video conferencing etiquette

Hybrid and remote working environments are here to stay, so virtual meetings are now a standard way of conducting business. Proper video conferencing etiquette is essential to making a good impression on clients or ensuring clear and efficient internal communications.

Although people almost received crash training in online meetings during the mass lockdown a few years ago, bad manners and annoying habits still exist. Recent UC Today Polls A survey of more than 25,000 of its followers on LinkedIn found that we all need to double-check whether we are presenting the utmost professionalism in front of the camera.

If you need a quick refresher, here are seven video conferencing etiquette tips.

Key Takeaways:

• Good video conferencing etiquette starts with advance preparation to ensure your system runs smoothly and has high-quality audio and video.
• If you are giving a presentation, you should prepare your material in advance so that you can start on time and eliminate distractions.
• Mute yourself when you are not speaking!
• Dress appropriately and pay attention.
• Most importantly, have a hassle-free video conferencing platform that allows you to hold HD meetings securely.

1. Prepare and test your system first to demonstrate good video conferencing etiquette

Always make sure you have your software and equipment ready at least 15 or 20 minutes before you go into a meeting. It’s easy to take for granted that your connection or equipment will always work, but often it seems like you need to update or your connection is spotty at the worst possible time.

In addition to ensuring that all features are enabled and up to date, run a speed test to ensure Sufficient bandwidthDo a quick check of your microphone and camera to ensure any filters or settings do not interfere with a professional meeting and demonstrate video conferencing etiquette. Use Highest quality audio and video settings.

2. Arrange appropriate lighting and background

You may not care much about lighting or think it has little to do with video conferencing etiquette. However, just being able to look presentable can have a positive impact on the success of your video conference. This is especially true when you’re making sales calls or interacting with clients, as you’re counting on conversions.

Additionally, a dull wall or drab living space behind you can lack personality and even make you unconvincing. Doctors and lawyers know that a particular decor, a full bookshelf, or a row of diplomas can have a subtle psychological effect when you walk into their office. Whether you’re showcasing your expertise or style, choose a background that sends the right message.

3. Understand that the mute button is your friend

What do you think is the most annoying thing about UC Today’s LinkedIn poll? If you guessed “not being able to mute the microphone,” you win! 50% of respondents gave this answer. Many people forget that powerful HD equipment There is more to gain than you think.

During an in-person meeting, you don’t want to hear background conversations, ringing phones, or random noises. The same is true for virtual meetings, where it can be more challenging to stay focused. Using the mute button when you’re not speaking is basic video conferencing etiquette.

4. Dress appropriately

Many businesses may have relaxed their strict office dress codes, but you should still dress appropriately. There are many anecdotes about professionals being caught while sitting at their desks in blazers and gym shorts while jumping up to grab something. While it’s understandable that you want to dress to be comfortable, wear clothing that will work well on camera.

5. Answer the phone on time

In addition to having everything set up correctly, make sure you’re on time and ready to go. Of course, this should be a given when it comes to video conferencing etiquette, but it’s easy to get lax in the virtual world.

If you are a host or speaker, being on time is of the utmost importance. You need to respect everyone’s time and get things off to a good start.

This also means being prepared for the following interactions: Screen Sharing and chat. While these can help keep participants engaged, you’ll lose their attention if they’re constantly waiting for you to launch the right app or screen. Do a dry run first to avoid any issues in real time.

6. Stay on task, not distracted

You might think that you can quietly click away in another window or check something else on your phone during a meeting with no penalty. However, this is poor video conferencing etiquette. Even if you can temporarily do it, someone will eventually notice.

Looking disengaged can ruin a deal you’re trying to close or send the wrong message to your team about the importance of the issue at hand. Look into the camera so the speaker feels heard.

7. Use a hassle-free platform that won’t let you down

You wouldn’t schedule a face-to-face meeting at any location, even if it was empty. You’d make sure you had the right acoustics, comfort, and privacy.

The same considerations apply to video conferencing. Everyone should be able to connect easily, see and hear everything clearly, and be confident that confidential information is not disclosed. The best approach is to use video conferencing as part of a single meeting. Secure unified communications platform Rather than having separate solutions for calls, texts, and chats.

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